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Listen to travel insight from HearPlanet, the guidebook that speaks out loud on your device and tells you what to see and where to go. HearPlanet finds the lesser-known spots and guides you along – via their advanced mapping engine – to find global coverage of over 300,000 locations.

Requirements: Compatible with iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad. Requires iOS 3.0 or later

Cost: FREE

6. World Customs

The best app for travelers who seek sincere cultural immersion, World Customs includes everything from cultural facts and traditions to advice on whether or not it’s wise to make eye contact with locals. Browse countries by flag (165 of them) and be amazingly prepared for any and all confrontations. Inside information listed by country includes proper greetings, gender issues, taboos, gestures and even personal space and touching.

Requirements: Compatible with iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad. Requires iOS 3.0 or later

Cost: FREE

7. Wi-Fi Finder

Via GPS, Wi-Fi Finder will show you where all of the closest free and paid wireless locations are and how to get there – you’ll never need to tirelessly wander around for service again. Wi-Fi Finder is linked to over 650,000 locations in 144 countries all over the world, keeping you internationally connected at all times.

Requirements: Compatible with iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad. Requires iOS 3.2 or later

Cost: FREE

8. Tourism Commissions and Bureaus

Apps created by tourism commissions and bureaus promise to be multifaceted and filled with local spots. It’s a sure way to go when exploring a new, uncharted territory. A shining example is the Canadian Tourism Commission’s Explore Canada Like a Local app, relaying prime travel insights from Canadians who know the real deal.

If you’re on the road or stuck in the middle of nowhere, Road Ninja will find restaurants, gas stations, parking, nightlife, sushi or even vegetarian eateries, all within a 3-mile radius of your exit. Scroll through what’s coming up at approaching exits, or stay on your path – whichever way you go, Road Ninja has mastered how to get you there.

Requirements: Compatible with iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad. Requires iOS 4.2 or later